United Way of Lee County began accepting letters of intent to apply for funding from Lee and Harnett County nonprofit agencies on January 12. The Letter of Intent (LOI) can be accessed at www.leecountyunitedway.org/LOI and is due February 4 by 5 p.m.
For the 2022 funding cycle, United Way is moving to a two-step application process. Submission of the LOI is the first step; after reviewing all submissions, the United Way Board of Directors will invite qualified organizations to submit a full application for funding. The board expects that this change will make the application process easier for agencies, since the LOI is less detailed than the full application.
Human-service agencies with 501(c)(3) status and public schools, colleges, and universities serving Lee and/or Harnett County communities are eligible to complete a Letter of Intent. Detailed eligibility criteria may be found on the LOI.
United Way of Lee County works to alleviate poverty and help people build pathways to self-sufficiency. In 2022, funding priority will be given to programs addressing housing, food, and physical and mental health. Community volunteers will evaluate funding requests, taking into consideration such things as the community’s need for the program, the impact that the program is making, and how the program advances equity. These volunteers make recommendations to the United Way Board of Directors, which makes final funding determinations.
Executive Director Kendra Martin said the funding application process ensures that donor dollars are invested where they can truly make a difference.
“Agencies applying for funding go through a rigorous process, designed to make sure that United Way is responding to critical community needs,” she said. “What you give here stays here to help address challenges that our most vulnerable citizens are facing. We are so grateful to everyone who contributes to United Way, and we highly value the trust that is placed in us.”
In addition to providing financial support to local nonprofits, United Way of Lee County also works to strengthen the community with programs such as NC 211, an information and referral service available by calling 2-1-1 from any phone, and VolunteerUnited.net, connecting volunteers with local opportunities for service. To learn more, visit www.leecountyunitedway.org.
United Way of Lee County works with community partners to provide programs and services that improve life for everyone in Lee and Harnett Counties. Contributions are invested in the local community to help nurture children, enhance self-sufficiency and strengthen families.